Wildsteer Knives: A French Knifemaker

21 Jun 2012By Matthew Cox

I always look for something cool from the blade world when I go to defense shows. There were some American companies at Eurosatory 12, but Wildsteer knives was the designer that caught my attention. This not to say that Edouard de Buyer's designs are superior to America's top bladesmiths. Not likely. But it was clear that de Buyer is passionate about his craft and that he makes an affordable, quality knife that you can get in the U.S.

My favorite from his line is the Wild Tech II, a handy little fixed blade with a 550-cord wrapped handle. I have carried tactical folders for many years now because fixed blades are just not as practical. But I could see how it might be useful to have Wildsteer's lightweight little Wild Tech clipped to the shoulder strap of a pack or a CamelBak.

It measures 7 3/4 inches overall and has a 3 3/4 inch blade made from Sandvik 12C27 stainless blade. It's hardened to 59-60 HRC. It comes with a skeletonized, molded plastic sheath that holds the blade securely. The sheath features a rotating belt clip that works like a Tec-Loc attachment -- but it may not be as durable. You can find the Wild Tech II online at sites like Knifeworks.com for about $75.

Wildsteer also makes larger, tactical knives such as the Wild Tactic, which features a double-edged chisel-style point, a Kraton handle and a hammer/window-breaker pommel. It also has what looks like a bottle opener at the based of the blade, but it is intended to work as a heavy-duty wire-cutter when used with a lever accessory that comes with the knife.